Families can take in the arts for free

Organizers of the Kaneland Fine Arts Festival want to give residents a three-fer: good entertainment that's nearby and free.

The all-day event on Sunday is a chance for families to see many different artists and performers without worrying about the price, said Bonnie Whildin, one of the organizers.

"Maybe people will have an experience they wouldn't have had otherwise," she said.

Last year, the festival drew 3,000 people.

Performances, workshops, demonstrations and displays will all be a part of the festival, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday at Kaneland High School, 47W326 Keslinger Road in Maple Park.

Featured performers include Cerqua Rivera, an ensemble that combines dance, music and art; the Jim Kull Quintet, a jazz ensemble; and the Eagle Wing Dance Theater, an American Indian ensemble.

There will be hands-on workshops on glass fusing, painting and printmaking, as well as musical performances.

Artists showing their work include potters, painters, photographers, sculptors and jewelry makers.

Whildin said organizers try to make the festival a district-wide event, and is excited by the involvement of more high school students this year.

Art students will offer face painting and caricatures, while culinary arts students will be providing a "food court."

Kaneland students will have artwork on display for purchase.

The entire schedule is posted on the festival's Web site at www.kaneland.org/shared/fineartsfestival.